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Reproduced below is the text of
the diplomatic note sent by the Chilean government to its German counterpart
regarding Germany's newly reintroduced policy of unrestricted submarine warfare.
This policy in effect set in
place a blockade of Britain and her European allies, to be applied to
belligerent and neutral shipping alike.

Reaction to the policy was
rapid; the Allied powers inevitably decried its aggression, as did the U.S.
government, which broke off diplomatic relations on 3 February 1917.
On the same day President
Woodrow Wilson appeared before Congress to
announce his reasons, receiving virtually unanimous support in doing so.

Reaction among other
neutrals was similarly one of dismay;
click here to read Spain's
reaction;
click here to read Brazil's response.

Chile's Diplomatic Protest to
Germany

7 February 1917

The Chilean Government has
taken cognizance of the note sent to it by his Majesty the German Emperor, in
which Chile is informed that Germany has fixed the limits of a blockade area
around the coasts of England, France and Italy, and in the Eastern
Mediterranean.

It has been informed also that
within said limits Germany will resort to hostile acts against whatever ship is
encountered, even if it belongs to a neutral power.

Such a measure, in the opinion
of the Chilean Government, amounts to a restriction of the rights of neutrals,
to which restriction Chile cannot agree because it is contrary to the principles
that have been long established in favour of neutral nations.

The acceptance by Chile of the
measures adopted by Germany would, moreover, divert her from the line of strict
neutrality which has been followed during the European conflict.

Chile consequently reserves
liberty of action to protect all of her rights in the event of any hostile acts
against her ships.